MARGAO
Dempo Sports Club's home match in the I-League 2024-25 ended in disappointment as they fell to Gokulam Kerala FC by a solitary goal at the Nehru Stadium, Fatorda, on Tuesday. Despite a valiant effort, Dempo, five-time national champions, couldn’t secure a point and remain in 9th place, having suffered their fourth defeat of the season. Gokulam Kerala, on the other hand, earned a crucial three points, bringing their total to 13 after Round 8.
The match was decided in the 86th minute when Gokulam Kerala’s midfielder A Murungodan scored the only goal of the game. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous opportunities, Gokulam Kerala couldn’t capitalize on their control over the match. Dempo survived several close calls, with Gokulam Kerala failing to break the deadlock earlier.
The visitors showed attacking intent right from the start, opening up the Dempo defense on at least four occasions. Dempo had an early chance in the 9th minute when Shubham Rawat took a shot from the top of the box, but it went just wide of the left post. Gokulam Kerala also came close when Adiama Niane’s snap shot hit the crossbar in the 11th minute. The visitors continued to press, with Niane beating the Dempo defense, but his shot was denied by goalkeeper Ashish Sibi.
The game continued with more action after the break. In the 50th minute, Gokulam Kerala substitute Martin Chaves had a powerful shot saved by Sibi. Dempo struggled to get into the game, and their best chance came in the 60th minute when Shubham Rawat made a brilliant run, drawing the Kerala goalkeeper out, but the delay allowed Kerala's Kapil Hoble to recover and clear the ball.
Despite Gokulam Kerala’s dominance in possession, Dempo had a late surge, but their efforts came too late. The deadlock was finally broken in the 86th minute when Chaves set up Murungodan to score, sealing the win for Gokulam Kerala.
As tensions rose, Dempo responded with attacking urgency but failed to convert when it mattered most. Meanwhile, off-field tensions flared as clashes broke out between security personnel and Gokulam Kerala fans, further adding to the drama of an intense match.
The loss leaves Dempo with much to ponder as they look to bounce back in their next match, while Gokulam Kerala FC continues their march up the league table.
